At Hamills, we know exactly how frustrating it can be to be left stranded without the use of your car. There are certain things you can do to help minimise the risk or breakdown and also help you in a breakdown emergency.
How to help prevent a breakdown
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Always remember to turn off your headlights. We get lots of call outs due to flat batteries.
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If you do not use your car much, try to make a half an hour journey every couple of weeks to keep the battery charged.
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Invest in a spare key if you do not already have one. Modern cars have a transponder which means that there is a chip in the key which is needed to start the car, not merely the key itself. This can be expensive to replace.
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Always check your spare tyre. It is amazing how many people have flat spares in the boot!
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Keep an eye on the fuel levels and try to fill up as soon as you reach the red or before it. Many people take too much of a risk and end up stranded. It is also worth keeping a jerry can in the boot in the event of such an emergency.
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Pay special attention to the type of fuel you put in the car, especially if it is a new car or you do not own it and are not used to it. In the event that you do accidentally put in the wrong fuel, you can call us straight away; we can flush the car out for you.
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Keep reflective jackets in the car in the event you breakdown at night.
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It is worth keeping water and a portable phone charger in the car.
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Keep an extra layer or some fleece blankets in the car, especially if you have kids.
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It is also worth having a map in your car – a paper one – not your smartphone!
Practical Tips in the event of a breakdown
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Ensure that you are pulled in somewhere safe. Only ever stop on the motorway if you have no choice.
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Face your wheels into the left – facing away from the road.
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Turn on your hazard lights to alert others to your presence.
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Put on reflective jackets if you have them.
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If you are on a motorway do not put out your warning triangle, it can be very dangerous with such fast traffic.
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Call Hamills as soon as you can. We have dealt with all types of emergencies and can help you get back on the road as soon as possible.
CALL US 24/7 ON 044 9344500
24 HOUR EMERGENCY BREAKDOWN SERVICE